The Fourth Round of Bilateral Consultations between the Foreign Affairs Ministries of Sri Lanka and Oman took place in Muscat on August 3, 2026. This meeting served as a crucial opportunity to assess the progress of their bilateral relationship and explore new areas for collaboration in sectors such as trade, investment, digital innovation, connectivity, and human resource development.
The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Aruni Ranaraja, Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, while the Omani side was directed by Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali bin Issa Al Harthy, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During the discussions, both nations reaffirmed the strong ties between Sri Lanka and Oman, expressing a mutual desire to broaden their cooperation into emerging sectors with considerable economic potential. The negotiations on a Special Trading Arrangement were highlighted, which is anticipated to facilitate increased bilateral trade and investment, while also bolstering private sector partnerships.
Sri Lanka acknowledged Oman’s significant progress in digital transformation, particularly in the realm of public service digitalization and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve efficiency, transparency, and innovation within the public sector. Recognizing the digital economy’s vital role in future growth, both parties agreed to foster the sharing of expertise, best practices, and innovative solutions, while also investigating opportunities in digital governance, AI utilization, and technology-driven entrepreneurship.
The importance of enhancing connectivity through direct maritime and air cargo routes was also stressed, given Oman’s strategic role as a regional maritime and logistics hub. This positioning is seen as essential for boosting trade and economic interactions between the two nations.
As founding members of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), both countries reiterated their commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and contributing to a secure and prosperous Indian Ocean region.
The consultations further delved into potential collaborations in agriculture, fisheries, tourism, higher education, and vocational training, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 and Sri Lanka’s economic reform priorities. Emphasis was placed on strengthening business-to-business connections, fostering increased private sector involvement, and creating a conducive environment for investment.
Recognizing the significant contributions of approximately 28,000 Sri Lankan nationals living and working in Oman, Secretary Ranaraja commended Oman’s ongoing support for the Sri Lankan community and noted their vital role in the nation’s economic progress. The Omani Under Secretary praised the professionalism and skills of the Sri Lankan workforce.
The discussions concluded with an agreement to maintain regular high-level communications and schedule the Fifth Round of Bilateral Consultations in Colombo.
On the margins of the consultations, Secretary Ranaraja engaged with Engineer Khalid Al-Ghammari, Oman’s Under Secretary of the Ministry of Labour, to discuss enhancing labour cooperation. Their talks focused on increasing employment opportunities for skilled Sri Lankan professionals, expediting the finalization of a bilateral labour agreement, and establishing interim support for Sri Lankan workers facing immigration or visa issues until legal processes or repatriation arrangements are completed. Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to promoting safe and mutually beneficial labour mobility while ensuring the welfare of Sri Lankan workers in Oman.
Additionally, Secretary Ranaraja met with Ambassador Tufool Al Dhahab from the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss fostering partnerships between Sri Lankan technology startups and Omani firms, particularly in IT and AI, reflecting a shared interest in promoting innovation-driven collaboration and enhancing knowledge economy connections.
During her visit, Secretary Ranaraja delivered a special lecture at the Oman Diplomatic Academy titled “Sri Lanka–Oman Relations: A Partnership for the Future,” at the invitation of the Omani Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This event was attended by senior officials from the ministry and diplomatic trainees, followed by a fruitful exchange of ideas. Furthermore, she explored opportunities for improved cooperation in diplomatic training and capacity building with Ambassador Sheikh Humaid Al Maani, the Head of the Academy.
As part of her official itinerary in Muscat, Secretary Ranaraja visited the Sri Lankan Embassy, where she addressed the staff and met with female Sri Lankan migrant workers residing in the embassy’s safe house, showing concern for their well-being.
The Sri Lankan delegation included Ambassador Kapila De Alwis, Director General J.A.D.S.P. Wijegunasekara, Head of Chancery Maxwell Keegel, and Counsellor Hemantha Wijeratne, who were all present for the meetings.
This visit, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations, reinforced the commitment of both Sri Lanka and Oman to deepen their longstanding friendship into a more expansive and forward-looking strategic partnership.
